Fast Facts

Began entertainment career in his teens working as an emcee at a Brooklyn theater. Other early gigs included carnival barker and daredevil driver.

Dubbed "The Great One" by Orson Welles.

Inducted into the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame in 1986, but never won a competitive Emmy (though his frequent costar Art Carney won five, for The Honeymooners and The Jackie Gleason Show).

As a composer, recorded more than 35 albums with the Jackie Gleason Orchestra, though he couldn't read music.

Had a fascination with the paranormal and an extensive collection of books on the subject.

A statue of Gleason as bus driver Ralph Kramden from The Honeymooners stands on Eighth Avenue outside the entrance to the Port Authority bus terminal in Manhattan.

Grandfather of actor Jason Patric.

Trademark catchphrase "And Away We Go" appears on tombstone.

Awards

1956, Emmy — Best Actor-Continuing Performance: Nominee

1954, Emmy — Best Male Star of a Regular Series: Nominee

1953, Emmy — Best Comedian: Nominee

1961, Oscar — Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role: Nominee

1955, Emmy — Best Written Comedy Material: Nominee

1955, Peabody — Personal Award: Winner

1962, Golden Globe — Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture: Nominee

1964, Golden Globe — Actor in a Television Series: Nominee

1963, Golden Globe — Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama: Nominee